Screens are an inextricable part of modern life for teens, but excessive device use can lead to negative impacts like behavioral issues and problems sleeping. The Surgeon General has even issued guidance on limiting screen time, particularly for social media. A digital detox is a great way to reset screen use and help teens form better long-term habits.
A digital detox is a set period where a person reduces or completely avoids digital devices such as smartphones, computers, and social media.
Whether your teen takes part in a full cleanse or just a careful reduction of their device use, there are many benefits to a digital detox.
For many teens, social media is a significant contributor to stress and anxiety. Chronic stress takes a toll on both the mind and the body.
Taking an intentional pause from online spaces gives kids a chance to rest and rejuvenate.
Excessive device use is linked to increased sleep disturbances.
A digital detox can temporarily improve the quality of your teen’s slumber. It can also help establish better sleep habits that they can carry over when the detox ends.
From habitual phone-checking to FOMO to checking their screen in situations where it’s unsafe to do so, overuse of devices brings plenty of problematic behaviors for teens (and adults, if we’re honest).
Detox from devices helps kids identify patterns and break the cycle of problematic behavior so they can develop new, healthier habits to continue long-term.
The truth is, most teens want to learn how to disconnect more and find a better balance with their device use, but they lack the skills to do so.
A digital detox is a valuable way to help them find that balance because it fosters self-regulation strategies, mindful device use, and increased understanding of their online behavior.
There’s really no wrong time for a digital detox, but here are some signs your teen may be especially in need of a break:
Here are some tips to set your teen up for success with their digital detox.
I know, I know. Why should you have to part with your device, too? But studies show a relationship between how parents use their devices and the screen habits of their children.
Engaging in a digital detox alongside your teen sets a good example and demonstrates solidarity with their efforts.
If your teen needs to maintain some communication during their detox, such as having a phone for emergencies while driving, consider temporarily replacing their device with a dumb phone — a phone that offers basic calls and texting, but none of the extra apps you’d find on a smartphone.
Is your kid worried about how their digital detox will impact their social life? Encourage them to let their core group of friends know they’ll be offline for a while.
People who do a digital detox often report feeling a void. Help your teen fill that void by planning some offline activities and hangout time with friends.
A digital detox isn’t nearly as beneficial if your child slips back into their old habits once it’s done.
Use the detox to help them recognize problematic behaviors and identify changes they can implement after the detox is over, such as daily mini-detoxes, turning off notifications, or logging off an hour or two before bed.
Talk to your teen about how their online activities make them feel. If they mention dealing with harassment, content that makes them feel uncomfortable, or simply struggle to unplug from their phone, here are some suggestions:
A digital detox can help your teen reduce their anxiety, improve their sleep, and develop healthier habits around device use, among other benefits. For a detox to be effective, it’s important to be intentional, make a plan, and help your child commit to long-term change.
